Dr Ibrahim Audu, President, AIMAN
…wants urgent implementation of AIS automation
As the world celebrates the Aeronautical Information Services Day, President of the Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN), Dr Ibrahim Audu, has called on the Federal government to reconsider its policy on the 50% deductions from aviation agencies Internally Generated Revenue to enable them address issues affecting safety facilities.
The World Aeronautical Information Services Day, (WAISD) is observed annually on May 15th. It commemorates the adoption of the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for Aeronautical Information Services by the ICAO Council in 1953, establishing a framework for the proper handling of aeronautical information. The day is a celebration of the teams who contribute to safe and efficient aviation by providing accurate and timely information for air navigation.
The theme for the 2025 WAISD is “Safeguarding The Skies : The Vital Role Of Secured Aeronautical Information In Aviation Safety”
In his message to mark the 2025 world AIS Day, Audu noted that the 50% revenue deduction from aviation agencies, especially the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has adversely affected the agency.
The association noted that the agencies play critical roles in the sector, hence safety of air travel should be given priority over economic considerations.
The AIMAN boss also called for the full implementation of the Aeronautical Information Service automation said this it would enhance air to ground communication as well as attract other benefits to the Nigerian airspace.
Audu , who lamented that ‘Nigeria is lagging behind in the automation of its services compared to other neighbouring countries’, said: ‘automation will bring about Geographic Information System (GIS) which will guide and enhance operations and also digitalize NOTAM systems.’
The AIMAN president further disclosed that the process will help to automate weather observatory systems while churning out accurate data to pilots.
Audu also reminded government about issues in getting members of the association licensed, adding that a committee headed by Mr. Patrick Afatapa has been setup to hasten the process.
The association however commended the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Ahmed Farouk for ensuring that obsolete navigation, communications and surveillance equipment are promptly replaced despite financial crunch.
“Arising from the fact that Nigeria is holding the first conference of International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Association (IFAIMA) 2025, the 2025 World AIS Day shall be celebrated at the station level in order to gear all support needed for a successful conference” Audu said.
Meanwhile, Audu urged all members of AIMAN in Nigeria to register and participate fully in the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Association (IFAIMA) conference where issues on safety and efficiency of international air navigation will be dissected.
AIMAN is an affiliate association of IFAIMA.
